Research Center for Disaster Mitigation of Urban Cultural Heritage, Ritsumeikan University / 立命館大学 歴史都市防災研究センター

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Over the centuries Japan has endeavored to preserve its cultural assets; however, scientific planning and preparation for natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods have been heretofore insufficient. And although there have been many advances in research and development of technology related to natural disaster mitigation, the irreplaceable value of cultural heritage assets has yet to be thoroughly considered.

Unless theoretical and technological developments to fill this gaping field, and a new approach that utilizes these technological advances and accounts for the importance of cultural assets, were developed, it will be exceedingly difficult to ensure the protection of cultural heritage for future generations. Circumstances surrounding cultural heritages have changed dramatically in 20th century, and traditional safety measures have deteriorated remarkably compared to previous generations. Our responsibility for sharing of Japan's cultural legacy with all the people of the world should not be forgotten.

With the fear of massive earthquakes and floods in the near future, disaster mitigation measures for cultural heritage should be implemented immediately. Thus, it is necessary to establish task-specific academic disciplines and to develop appropriate technologies.

At the Research Center for Disaster Mitigation of Urban Cultural Heritage, Ritsumeikan University, we will conduct various research activities based on projects and programs supported by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, Government of Japan. The Center aims for developing a network for cultural heritage risk preparedness in cooperation with international organizations such as UNESCO, and for promoting cultural heritage protection around the world.

Kenzo TOKI, Director
Research Center for Disaster Mitigation of Urban Cultural Heritage,
Ritsumeikan University